Ruby to the Rescue From Sleep Apnea

by Michelle Cochran
(Yarrawonga Victoria Australia)

Ruby waiting for me to mask-up

I just very recently submitted a story Titled -'How One Simple Test Can Save Years of Heartache'. Being diagnosed with Sleep Apnea was just one step in a very long journey. This journey I will go into at another time, but for now I want to tell all about a very special little girl.

I was very fortunate for several years leading up to my diagnosis. I only wish I new it at the time. My very best friend is my little Chihuahua, Ruby. I moved from the west coast to the east coast of Australia in July 2008. Having never lived alone before I needed a companion. Ruby was the best thing that had come into my life for a long time.

But not long after I got her she started doing something that was really starting to frustrate me. I had taught Ruby that if she needed anything when I was asleep to tap me 3 times to wake me. Nine times out of time she would wake me but she didn't want anything. This would happen several times a night.As time passed she became more and more persistence. It was only about 18 months ago that I joked with my girlfriend that it must be my snoring upsetting her, after all I would wake myself with the snoring.

When I was finally told the news I had Major Obstructive Sleep Apnea, even thouh I felt like an idiot, I mention to a few of the Drs & my CPAP therapist about Ruby's behaviour & could it have anything to do with the OSA. I was told that she probably was saving my life. She had sensed that I had stopped breathing & was trying to wake me up.

When I was put onto the CPAP machine, I showed it to Ruby & explained it to her. Might sound crazy, but being my best friend & dearest companion I just treat Ruby like a person. But your not going to believe this--------

When it's time for bed Ruby will not settle until I have my mask on. She sits up on the bed & watches, & waits to hear the CPAP machine start. Sometimes I have bad nights & I remove my mask. If I don't get up she jumps up on the bed tapping me to I either replace the mask or I get out of bed.

This little girl is worth her weight in gold & I consider myself the luckiest person for having her unconditional love. Too often our four-legged friends are the ones who save the day.

Ruby is my hero, she saved me before I was diagnosed & she continues to watch over me.